Making progress: the health, development and wellbeing of Australia's children and young people

Ensuring that children get the best possible start in life is a key priority for the Australian Government. This report delivers the latest and most reliable information on how, as a nation, we are faring according to key statistical indicators of child and youth health, development and wellbeing. The report covers children and young people aged 0-19 years, and includes indicators for the entire 0-19 year age range as well as indicators for three different stages of development: 1) infancy and early childhood; 2) school age childhood; and 3) adolescence. Information is presented on important issues such as mental health, disability, risk factors for chronic disease, mortality, education, homelessness, crime, jobless families and family economic situation. Particular attention is given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and youth, and to how Australia compares internationally. This is an essential resource for policy makers, researchers, practitioners and anyone interested in the progress of Australia's children and youth.

Notes and corrections

Previous versions of files that have been updated or corrected are presented below.

(10 December 2008) Amendments have been made to page 17 to reflect current Australian dietary guidelines in relation to breastfeeding.

'Exclusive' breastfeeding is defined as the infant receiving only breast milk and no other food or drink, including water, while 'fully' breastfeeding infants can receive other fluids such as juice or water. The Australian dietary guidelines for children and adolescents recommend exclusive breastfeeding of infants until around 6 months of age to achieve optimal growth, development and health.47